Introduction

If ever there was a segment in the automotive marketplace where bigger is better--or, more specifically, stronger and more powerful is better--it would have to be full-size heavy-duty trucks. To some, the battle to be king of the hill may appear to be nothing more than an act of four-wheeled machismo, but, in reality, raw capability is at the heart of what sells these workhorses, along with increasing amounts of technology and creature comforts. For 2015, Ford has positioned its F-250, F-350, and F-450 Super Duty models to once again outmatch the competition with an available diesel engine that now delivers more than 850 lb.-ft. of torque and has a maximum tow rating of 31,200 lbs. (F-450 set up with a gooseneck hitch).

Exterior Features

There's a 2015 Ford Super Duty model for most every taste and purpose, from the relatively bare-bones F-250 XL regular cab with a standard 8-ft. cargo box to an F-450 Platinum crew cab with dual rear wheels and that same long bed. Super (also known as extended and extra) cab versions are offered, too, as is a 6.75-ft. bed. Depending on configuration, the 2015 F-Series Super Duty can be equipped with 17-in. steel to 20-in. alloy wheels, manual or power-telescoping trailer tow mirrors, tow package, integrated tailgate step, chrome trim (satin chrome on the Super Duty Platinum), and illuminated cab steps (King Ranch).

Interior Features

As is the case with the 2015 Super Duty's exterior, what you'll find inside is highly dependent upon which trim level is selected. For the no-frills XL, the list of amenities includes the essentials, such as air conditioning, vinyl seats and flooring, and a radio; the popular XLT proves to be a bit more hospitable with its cloth upholstery and carpeting, power windows and door locks, Sync infotainment system with a CD player and satellite radio service, and cruise control. A move up to the Super Duty Lariat opens the door to standard dual-zone automatic climate control, along with power-adjustable foot pedals, 4.2-in. LCD screen within the gauge cluster, 110-volt household-style power outlet, Sony premium audio system, leather seating, and the MyFord Touch infotainment system. If the Lariat doesn't quite cut it, the luxurious 2015 Super Duty King Ranch might fit the bill with remote start, driver memory settings, touch-screen navigation unit, heated and cooled front captain's chairs, and premium leather upholstery. At the top of the Super Duty trim pyramid is the Platinum, home to a heated steering wheel with genuine wood trim and more.

Optional Features

Add-ons for the 2015 Ford Super Duty are plentiful and run the gamut from work-truck related items to high-end goods and technology. Among the highlights are an FX4 Off-road package consisting of skid plates and Rancho shocks, heated rear seats, upfitter switches for aftermarket applications, power moonroof, dual alternators, and a larger fuel tank.

Under the Hood

Ford offers the 2015 Super Duty with a choice of two stout engines, starting with a gasoline-powered 6.2-liter V-8 that produces 385 horsepower and 405 lb.-ft. of torque, all of which is managed by a 6-speed automatic transmission that directs output to the rear or all four wheels. For drivers with heavier workloads, the optional 6.7-liter V-8 Power Stroke diesel may be a more suitable selection, especially since Ford upgraded the turbocharger for 2015 and, as a result, increased ratings to 440 horsepower and 860 lb.-ft. of torque. Again, the 6-speed automatic helps transfer that power to the ground.

Depending on cab and engine configuration, the 2015 Ford F-250 can tow up to 16,800 lbs. and accommodate a 4,250-lb. payload, while the F-350 bumps those figures to 25,700 and 7,260, respectively. The F-450 boasts a maximum towing capacity of 31,200 lbs. when properly equipped and can haul a 5,450-lb. payload.

Fuel Economy

The EPA does not provide fuel-economy data for heavy-duty trucks, including the 2015 Ford F-Series Super Duty.

Safety

Standard on all 2015 Ford Super Duty pickups are 6 air bags, 4-wheel anti-lock disc brakes, and trailer sway control. With the exception of the base XL version, all Super Duty trucks are also fitted with a trailer brake controller, while the Lariat and above address safety with a rearview camera and rear park-assist sensors.

At the time of this writing, neither the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) nor the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) had crash tested the 2015 Ford Super Duty.